Eglinton stun Brigade to reach North West Senior Cup final

Alistair Bushe

Eglinton reached the North West Senior Cup final for the first time in nine years after a superb victory over Brigade at Beechgrove on Sunday.

The villagers chased down a target of 211 with almost 13 overs to spare as professional Oraine Williams and Ireland international Stuart Thompson plundered half-centuries for the second successive day.

Williams, the West Indian, struck 11 fours in an unbeaten 82 while Thompson’s 51 included 28 in an over bowled by Nick Donnell.

The third-wicket pair added 116 to take Eglinton to a famous victory.

Earlier, Ryan Hunter continued his rich vein of form for Brigade with unbeaten 82 including six fours and three sixes.

Gareth McKeegan made 45 and David Murdock 32 but economical spells from Williams, Johnny Gardiner and Richard Wylie ensured Brigade finished well below where they would have wanted.

In the North West Premiership Coleraine gained a crucial advantage in the title race by shocking Donemana by seven wickets at The Holm.

A day after losing heavily in the Senior Cup semi-final at the same ground, the Bannsiders dismissed Donemana for just 179 as Grame McCarter took four for 34. Tom Riddles top scored with 72.

Coleraine eased to their target in 28 overs as Kyllin Vardhan hit 70 not out.